Towneley - Burnley's historic hall and grounds

Towneley Hall is set in 445 acres of beautiful parkland, providing all the ingredients for a fun, educational and adventurous day out.

The historic house has a museum that houses a variety of displays, encompassing natural history, Egyptology, local history, textiles, decorative art and regional furniture, together with an art gallery.

Inside the house itself, you could lose yourself for hours exploring the period rooms, art gallery and learning more about Burnley’s history whilst a Mouse Trail through the museum keeps children entertained.

The art gallery includes a large collection of paintings, focusing on romantic Victorian and pre-Raphaelite art, with some earlier paintings as well. Of note are the gallery’s Waterhouse paintings, including the original Destiny, works by Poynter and Zoffany, and the ovine-themed paintings of Joseph Farquharson, also know as ‘Frozen Mutton Farquharson’.

In July 2005 the Heritage Lottery Fund granted £2 million to help fund a major programme of restoration of the park. A previous HLF helped to build a museum shop, lecture theatre and offices in the footprint of the old servants’ quarters.

There is a huge area of open space to wander around within the grounds, including beautiful gardens, a children’s play area, and a large garden centre. In the park you will find woodland sculptures, Folds Cross, and a cenotaph. And in case you get get tired strolling around, there are two cafes nearby to sit down and relax.

Towneley also hosts an array of family- friendly events including a classic car show, Burnley 10k run, the popular Woodland Festival and many other entertaining visitors of all ages.

I love Towneley Hall! I grew up here and love visiting when I'm home. I work at the V&A in London now and it inspired me to work in the museum world.